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1 How to Reduce Fleet Management Costshttps://www.reefguardian.org/how-to-reduce-fleet-management-costs/
Wed, 03 Jun 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=446Like any business person, fleet owners and managers go into the business to make a profit. To do this successfully, they must understand where the money is being spent. More importantly, as a fleet manager or owner, you must be able to identify areas of operation where costs can be reduced. Knowing these pieces of …

]]>Like any business person, fleet owners and managers go into the business to make a profit. To do this successfully, they must understand where the money is being spent. More importantly, as a fleet manager or owner, you must be able to identify areas of operation where costs can be reduced. Knowing these pieces of information can help you better manage the expenses required in operating a fleet.

With that said, here’s how fleet managers can reduce costs:

1. Take stock of your vehicles

Some vehicles in a fleet incur more costs than what they bring in. These vehicles tend to be ones that are not crucial to fleet operations, such as those that are highly specialized but underutilized. Letting these vehicles go can help lower fuel and maintenance costs.

To identify which vehicles need to be discharged from your fleet, consider their total cost of ownership and utilization rate. Those that incur costs but have low utilization rates and are non-critical can be disposed of.

2. Encourage fuel-efficient driving

Fuel is one of the most significant cost drivers within fleets. This is why fleet managers must have a proactive fuel management system in place. This means tracking the fuel costs from every vehicle and imparting fuel efficiency techniques for drivers, especially ones who incur significant fuel costs.

These techniques usually involve better driving habits, such as switching gears properly, slowing down their driving, and keeping tires at the right pressure. As drivers develop these habits, their fuel costs can go down significantly, lowering the overall fuel spending of the fleet.

3. Optimize route planning

One of the most overlooked areas of fleet management might be route planning. However, inefficient routes not only drive up fuel costs but can also affect your drivers’ health. Both of these can grow into bigger and costlier problems. Your fleets’ vehicle routes must be optimized for every travel.

Plenty of applications and pieces of software have been developed to calculate the best route fleet vehicles can take. This means going on the shortest and smoothest routes possible. With your fleet driving this way, drivers can avoid known areas of heavy congestion and minimize the miles they travel. As a result, the fleet can see savings in terms of fuel and vehicle maintenance, as well as avoid penalties from late deliveries.

4. Eliminate unnecessary expenses

Beliefs regarding the proper maintenance of fleet vehicles are sometimes outdated. Some fleet managers impose vehicle maintenance every few thousand kilometers. While preventive maintenance is essential in keeping vehicles functioning for longer, not every vehicle needs to have maintenance checks frequently.

Regular maintenance checks are only required for vehicles that perform severe duty. Light-duty vehicles can extend the intervals of their preventive maintenance as long as proper pre- and post-duty checks are being carried out. By doing this, you can eliminate the unnecessary expense that frequent maintenance incurs.

Apart from that, other unnecessary expenses also include over-spec’ing vehicles and keeping underutilized a part of the fleet, as outlined in the first point. Eliminating these can save your fleet a considerable amount of money.

]]>Database Management Challenges and How to Overcome Themhttps://www.reefguardian.org/database-management-challenges-and-how-to-overcome-them/
Wed, 03 Jun 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=437Selecting the right database that meets your business needs can be a challenge, thanks to the many choices available today. However, once you clear those obstacles, more will remain. As the frequency of user interactions, the number of devices, and the volume of data stored change and increase rapidly, so do the challenges you’ll face …

]]>Selecting the right database that meets your business needs can be a challenge, thanks to the many choices available today.

However, once you clear those obstacles, more will remain. As the frequency of user interactions, the number of devices, and the volume of data stored change and increase rapidly, so do the challenges you’ll face when managing your database.

To make your database management efficient for your business, here are five common issues you’ll face and the ways to overcome them:

Data Security

The first six months of 2019 saw over 3,800 publicly disclosed breaches, compromising more than 4.1 billion records. The databases of these records were vulnerable not because of a security issue. Their security guidelines were lengthy, which made people not read and implement them.

Whether you’re using Oracle Database or Microsoft SQL Server, continuously conduct monitoring and regular health checks and updates. Come up with database security guidelines that are simple to set up. Encrypt your data and allow access only to the employees who need to view the information.

Performance

To please your users, your database must process information quickly without making them jump through hoops to access data. Regardless of your hardware, your database must take in large amounts of data without slowing down. Check your database now and then to evaluate its performance.

Data Safety

Data loss could cost your business money. According to Information Technology Intelligence Consulting, database downtimes cost businesses an average of US $100,000 per hour. This amount doesn’t count the loss of reputation or the possibility of your business closing down.

Although your database should process data in a way that makes sure nothing is lost, always back up your data. Duplicate your information and store copies in a separate location. Doing so will spare you from a heart attack, and your business will continue to operate.

Scalability

If your database doesn’t adapt to your growing business needs, you won’t be efficient with how you operate. Depending on your business needs, you can choose to scale horizontally or vertically:

Horizontal Scaling

This type of scaling involves buying additional memory to your cloud or a larger server. This option makes data easier to retrieve because it’s stored in smaller units. However, keep in mind that this solution is temporary if you want to keep upgrading in the future.

Vertical Scaling

Knowledge and Skill

Data management can be a challenge if your staff doesn’t know how to go about it. Without adequate procedures and experienced personnel, issues in your database could stretch out for hours or days. If your budget permits, hire a third-party staff to update your database. Regularly train the users of your database on how to make the most of the system so that they can work more efficiently.

Databases are warehouses of information, so securing them is a high priority. Make sure that you properly configure and deploy your database. Maintain all aspects of your security so that your database resists attacks that come its way.

]]>A Secure Financial Future: How to Prepare and Improve Your Lifehttps://www.reefguardian.org/a-secure-financial-future-how-to-prepare-and-improve-your-life/
Thu, 28 May 2020 03:52:25 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=442When it comes to preparing for the future, you need to be fully aware of the importance of planning. You should start as early as you can because you can’t go wasting time. If you lose the opportunity to prepare for the future, you will experience a lot of struggles when you get older. To …

]]>When it comes to preparing for the future, you need to be fully aware of the importance of planning. You should start as early as you can because you can’t go wasting time. If you lose the opportunity to prepare for the future, you will experience a lot of struggles when you get older. To avoid this, you should think of ways to ensure that you create a better future. Having financial security is one of the best solutions that can help you avoid experiencing a difficult life in the future.

What Is Financial Security?

Financial security is about having the ability to avoid all the stress and hassle that you often experience whenever money matters are brought up. It means you get to enjoy a life where you don’t need to worry about your expenses. You earn income that can finance all your needs, including paying for things that will make you feel happy and contented. You don’t just earn enough money, but you also have extra funds to finance your savings, investments, and other excellent opportunities. You get to do whatever you want as well without worrying that you will run out of money.

Effective Ways to Secure Your Future

Various ways can help you secure your future. The key is to find out what works for you. To help you get started, here are a few ideas for you:

Start saving for an emergency fund—You need to start learning how to manage your income. Create a separate savings account to collect enough funds during emergencies. Make sure that you allot enough budget for this every time you receive money. You can also create different savings accounts for other financial goals, such as insurance plans, investments, etc.

Prepare for retirement—Make sure that you start planning for your retirement. It’s never too early to start scouting for retirement homes. You should also begin planning how to gather enough funds to finance your lifestyle when you get older.

Get insurance policies—Start reaching out to insurance companies or agents that can help you get different insurance policies. You might want to check out various options for life and health insurance. It would help if you also considered finding a trusted lawyer to assist you with processing documents and other legal matters. You might need help in filing long-term disability claims. Thus, you have to ensure that you have someone reliable to assist you when issues arise.

Make investments—Learn how to make investments and grow your portfolio as early as you can. Investing your money can help you grab wonderful opportunities that can help you improve your finances. You can find additional sources of income by starting your own business or investing in stocks and bonds. Make sure that you talk to a financial advisor and other experts that can help you understand more about the different types of investments.

Securing your financial future will provide you a lot of benefits. Making sure that you make the necessary preparations to achieve it is crucial. You will have to work hard and spend a lot of time figuring out the best ways to improve your finances. The process will be challenging, but you need to stay motivated. As long as you stay focused on your goal, you can ensure that you will have a bright future ahead of you.

]]>Disability Insurance: 5 Essential Things You Must Knowhttps://www.reefguardian.org/disability-insurance-5-essential-things-you-must-know/
Thu, 28 May 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=419Nobody wants to suffer a temporary or long-term disability as it could affect one’s livelihood and enjoyment of life, like loss of companionship and mobility. But life, as they say, can pull some pretty nasty surprises that we can’t do something about to avoid. However, you’re not powerless as you can simply get disability insurance …

]]>Nobody wants to suffer a temporary or long-term disability as it could affect one’s livelihood and enjoyment of life, like loss of companionship and mobility. But life, as they say, can pull some pretty nasty surprises that we can’t do something about to avoid.

However, you’re not powerless as you can simply get disability insurance (DI) the soonest time you can. Most employers provide such insurance to their employees but you can also get one for yourself. Now, suppose you already have one and you figured in an accident that has left you disabled, how do you go about filing your claim or making sure that you’re qualified for it in the first place?

Aside from getting help from experienced disability insurance lawyers in Los Angeles, you should also equip yourself with some essential knowledge about disability insurance so you’ll at least know what to expect and how to go about it. Here are five essential things about disability insurance that you must know:

Ways to get disability insurance

There are several ways on how you could secure disability insurance to have you financially covered when the worst thing happens. There is employer-provided insurance coverage as part of the benefits given to employees, which is generally a short-term insurance policy. Social security also has specific insurance that covers disabilities of its beneficiaries, while certain states like New York and California offer short-term disability insurance to residents. Some credit card companies also have their own DI programs for cardholders although coverage may be limited. Finally, you can simply buy your own DI policy so you can choose between the two types of disability insurance, which will be discussed later.

Benefits

Having a DI is primarily meant to offer you financial coverage in case you encounter a disability that could last for months or a few years. When you have a DI and your application gets approved, you can at least have a source of income during the time that you’re unable to work. For many, it can be a lifesaver as they can cover their daily expenses while recuperating from their disability.

Two types of disability insurance

The two types of disability insurance are short-term and long-term coverage. The first one generally covers anywhere between 60% to 70% of a person’s base salary for up to a full year. The second type, meanwhile, could cover 40% to 60% of the base salary and could last up to several years.

Requirements to qualify for disability insurance

Eligibility requirements generally depend on the type of DI that you have, as well as the policy of the insurance company. But generally, one has to have suffered a disability that can be supported by medical evidence, including a physician’s assessment of the disability. For short-term DIs, the decision can be made within two weeks following the disability; for long-term DIs, it could take up to three months.

Dealing with an unfair claim denial or delay

Not all applications for disability insurance will be approved. In case yours got denied and you feel that the decision is an unfair denial or there is unnecessary delay in the release of your benefits, you should immediately seek help from a disability insurance lawyer. Your lawyer will help you file an appeal with your insurance company and supply the necessary documents to strengthen your claim.

Hiring a disability insurance lawyer when you encounter a problem with your claim is a must. This way, you’ll have a great chance of being approved so that you can receive the benefits that are included in your policy.

]]>Things You Need to Set Up a Home Officehttps://www.reefguardian.org/things-you-need-to-set-up-a-home-office/
Sat, 09 May 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=426Working from home is a new trend in the flexible workplace, and the population of freelancers is continuously growing especially for jobs that can be managed through telecommuting. But before calling the VoIP phone companies to order handsets for your home office setup, know the basic components of a conducive workspace at home. Computer. Choose a …

]]>Working from home is a new trend in the flexible workplace, and the population of freelancers is continuously growing especially for jobs that can be managed through telecommuting. But before calling the VoIP phone companies to order handsets for your home office setup, know the basic components of a conducive workspace at home.

Computer.

Choose a computer based on the nature of your work. If you need a mobile office because your job involves meeting clients in various locations, you need a laptop you can carry around, with specifications that can support the programs you need to run. If your job does not require you to travel, you can always choose a desktop computer for better specifications and more durable hardware. Whatever kind of computer your job demands, just make sure that you are getting your money’s worth when you buy one.

Software.

Know the software your computer needs to function well. Also, be sure to install applications that you need for telecommuting and those that your team uses for project management.

High-speed Internet and Network Router.

Getting the best specifications and software for your computer will be useless if you don’t have high-speed internet and network router for connectivity. These will help you bridge the distance between you and your teammates and clients. Without internet connection with decent speed for teleconferencing, you won’t be able to communicate clearly.

Telephone and VoIP.

VoIP or Voice over Internet Protocol makes communication possible across distances between people. People who work from their homes do not call clients and teammates using home phone landline anymore. Communication is now through internet-based phone services. You need the same communication services if you prefer a flexible work environment.

Backup Drive or Personal Server.

Since your work will be producing a lot of online files, you need to keep your data safe using a personal server or a backup drive. Cloud-based servers are the usual choice of those who want their files accessible through any gadget as long as there is an internet connection. Some also invest in offline external drives to keep their files for backup. It would be better to use both offline and online backup to secure copies of your files.

An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

An interrupted power supply can cause problems when you are working from home. Imagine a sudden power outage while you are in the middle of a client meeting. The inconvenience and damages that these problems bring can be avoided if you have an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) that can temporarily provide the power supply you need during a power outage.

Desk, chair and adequate lighting.

On top of the technical components of your home office, you should never forget the furniture that will provide the comfort you need while working. You need a desk that is big enough to accommodate all your things, an ergonomic chair to hold your back perfectly for long hours of sitting down and adequate lighting to minimise eye strain while working in front of a screen all day.

There are more components of a home office that you can check online and add to this list, but make sure that you have the basics to make your workspace functional. Always keep in mind that your home office should provide the functionality and comfort that you need.

]]>Strategies for Building a Positive Workplace Culturehttps://www.reefguardian.org/strategies-for-building-a-positive-workplace-culture/
Thu, 07 May 2020 06:30:13 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=432Company culture is an essential part of every business. It can influence just about every aspect of your company’s operations. Everything from employee productivity to top talent recruitment, a great culture is the secret to a prosperous business. The absence of a positive workplace culture can make employees feel unhappy and unfulfilled. On the other …

]]>Company culture is an essential part of every business. It can influence just about every aspect of your company’s operations. Everything from employee productivity to top talent recruitment, a great culture is the secret to a prosperous business. The absence of a positive workplace culture can make employees feel unhappy and unfulfilled. On the other hand, positive corporate culture can boost productivity, creativity, and happiness. The following are some of the best strategies for implementing a positive work environment.

Reward your employees’ hard work

Everyone knows that positive rewards and recognition is a great way to motivate people to achieve anything. Providing your employees with excellent lifestyle rewards in the UK is a great way to celebrate exceptional efforts and encourage a culture of positive recognition. By giving your employees clear and accessible goals to work towards, you’ll see definite results in the form of a highly engaged and motivated workforce.

Encourage positive communication

Both employers and employees need a clear line of communication in order to function efficiently. This fosters healthy and supportive work relationships. Provide many open lines of communication for your workforce to voice their concerns and questions and be sure to listen. Not only will you be able to encourage trust and connection, but you’ll be able to understand what areas of the business need work from the people who know it best.

Support employee wellness

A healthy workforce is a happy one. Employees need to be in tip-top shape mentally, physically, and emotionally before they can positively and productively contribute to the business. Make sure that you’re providing plenty of tools and resources that allow your team to live healthy lives both within and outside of your workplace. Regular team-building outings, group exercises, and providing nutritious food options are just some ways you can achieve this.

Demonstrate a clear purpose for your business

It’s absolutely necessary that your business demonstrates a clear set of core values that runs through everything you do. A commitment to positive values, causes, and actions is something that your workforce can take pride in. Let your employees cultivate a responsibility to uphold these positive values. These practices will contribute to a positive workplace environment.

Give your workplace meaning

Purpose and meaning is the best motivator, even better than rewards and praise. Employees need a reason to work that goes beyond just physical rewards. Job satisfaction also depends on the need to feel mentally and spiritually fulfilled. Without this kind of fulfillment, positivity in the workplace will most likely suffer. Let your employees know just how important their roles are and how their efforts impact the business and its respective clients.

Motivate your employees to be sociable

Positive work environments depend on positive relationships among employees. Provide your workforce with plenty of opportunities to interact with and get to know everyone in the workplace. This includes leaders and higher-ups. These kinds of opportunities include things like team-building excursions, team meals, and educational workshops.

A great corporate culture makes employees feel valued and cared for. An inspired and motivated workforce is one that will give you the best results.

]]>Here’s Why You Should Learn to Eat a Plant-Based Diethttps://www.reefguardian.org/here-why-you-should-learn-to-eat-a-plant-based-diet/
Mon, 04 May 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=405While Britons still struggle with eating healthy, more are becoming aware of its importance. A 2017 IRI study revealed that over 70% of shoppers bought healthy food. Around 43% of them spent on organic food. These days, one can take training for a natural chef, which may pave for a career in the health industry. …

]]>While Britons still struggle with eating healthy, more are becoming aware of its importance. A 2017 IRI study revealed that over 70% of shoppers bought healthy food. Around 43% of them spent on organic food.

These days, one can take training for a natural chef, which may pave for a career in the health industry. But a person may also enroll merely to learn more about the essence of nutrition, especially plant-based eating.

But, First, What’s a Plant-Based Diet?

A plant-based diet is a lifestyle or practice where most of the calories and nutrients come from plants. These include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and grains.

The term itself is broad and may cover the following:

Vegetarianism, which is the non-consumption of animal-based meats. These include meat, poultry, and fish.

Veganism, which is the non-consumption of animal-based meats and other related products. Examples include fish, pork, poultry, dairy, and eggs.

Pescetarianism, which is eating vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, grains, and fish only. They may also consume dairy.

There’s no specific percentage to follow for a diet to be plant-based. Some, though, suggests that plants should account for at least 75% of a person’s meal plan. It’s also ideal to combine different types of produce. This way, they can maximise the nutritional benefits of the food.

What Are the Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet?

A growing number of studies highlight the benefits of eating a plant-based meal plan:

1. It May Decrease the Risk of Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disorders are responsible for over 25% of deaths in the UK each year. Eating plants may help lower the odds.

In a 2019 study by the American Heart Association, following this meal plan decreased the risks of cardiovascular events by 16%. These included strokes, heart failures, and heart attacks. The individual was also over 25% less likely to die from heart disease than those who consumed the least.

One of the primary reasons is a link between red meat and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). TMAO comes from a metabolite of the gut bacteria. These microorganisms, meanwhile, feast on choline, which is common in meat-based products, including eggs.

A JAMA study showed an association between high levels of TMAO with premature death and increased risks of cardiovascular disease.

2. It May Reduce the Odds of Type 2 Diabetes

Unlike type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition, type 2 diabetes is more of a metabolic disorder. It usually develops due to poor lifestyle choices, such as excessive consumption of refined sugar, sodium, and fat.

A 2016 Harvard University research revealed that following a plant-based diet might help cut down the risk for this disease. Strict adherence to it might reduce the odds by 20% compared to those who had the least compliance.

Type 2 diabetes is a risk factor for other health problems, such as glaucoma and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This is because the metabolic disease can damage healthy nerves.

3. It May Lower the Odds of Chronic Diseases Among Obese Children

Childhood obesity is harmful because it may result in the early diagnosis of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders and type 2 diabetes. The good news is it may be easier to correct than adult obesity.

Besides sports, eating a plant-based diet may help. In a 2015 study by the Cleveland Clinic, obese children who followed the lifestyle saw a significant improvement in body mass index (BMI). They also reported better insulin sensitivity and lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

Granted, if one isn’t used to it, it may be difficult to transition, but that’s what courses like training for a natural chef are for. In the end, eating healthy does offer a lot of incentives. These benefits make the challenges worth it.

]]>The Incredible Story of Ricky Jackson and Why Americans Need to Have a Good Criminal Attorneyhttps://www.reefguardian.org/the-incredible-story-of-ricky-jackson-and-why-americans-need-to-have-a-good-criminal-attorney/
Sat, 25 Apr 2020 01:00:00 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=412One of the last things Americans would want to experience is being charged with a crime, and yet it does happen. In Utah, at least 4,000 inmates are in the state prison. The Beehive State also recorded a growing number of prisoners. In 2019, it increased by 300 or over 6,700 of them a day. …

]]>One of the last things Americans would want to experience is being charged with a crime, and yet it does happen. In Utah, at least 4,000 inmates are in the state prison. The Beehive State also recorded a growing number of prisoners. In 2019, it increased by 300 or over 6,700 of them a day.

When one faces a criminal charge, the state can provide a public defender. In some cases, they may choose to skip a jury trial or plead guilty. In many ways, the best option is to work with an experienced criminal attorney in Salt Lake City. The price one pays for a weak defense can be high. Consider the story of Ricky Jackson.

40 Years behind Bars

At 18, Ricky Jackson already had a life that’s completely different from the rest of the youngsters of that time. A criminal court sentenced the Ohio native, along with two others, to death for committing murder.

The story goes that these three young males robbed Harold Franks and his wife in a convenience store, while the couple was busy with their money-order business. The central eyewitness said that he saw two blacks splash acid on the man’s face and then went on to club and eventually shoot him

Due to the sentence, the lawyers immediately appealed for a lower penalty. Eventually, all three received life imprisonment until they were exonerated. The primary eyewitness recanted his story, sharing he testified falsely due to police coercion.

But by then, Jackson had already spent about 40 years of his life behind bars—the longest time for any exonerated convict in the United States.

Today, Ricky Jackson is keeping himself busy. In an interview with the Smithsonian, he said he felt a sense of urgency and that he had every intention to live a good life. He already received $1 million from the government, which is half of the compensation for his long imprisonment.

Everything to Lose

When asked about his prison life, Jackson talked about how he fought to survive—literally. Fortunately, he learned to educate himself and made himself as productive as possible. Either way, there’s no doubt that he lost a lot along the way.

The same goes for hundreds of people who are now behind bars for crimes they didn’t commit. Others may still be waiting for a day in court.

The effect of incarceration is tremendous. According to a 2001 report, the families left behind may experience significant financial difficulty whether the incarcerated individual is the spouse or not. Children whose parents end up in prison will eventually be part of the foster care system unless a capable relative applies to be the guardian.

All parties will also have to deal with the emotional trauma that comes with imprisonment. The ones left behind may be subject to ridicule, abuse, or social stigma.

The loss also doesn’t stop the moment a person gets out. A 2018 report revealed that 27% of ex-offenders didn’t have a job. That’s over a million people.

To be accused of a crime is scary, and the lack of legal knowledge makes it worse. Fortunately, they can also remember one thing: they can always get help. Reliable criminal attorneys are available to make sure the accused also get justice.

]]>Sane and Sound: Ways To Cope During Quarantinehttps://www.reefguardian.org/sane-and-sound-ways-to-cope-during-quarantine/
Mon, 13 Apr 2020 02:31:37 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=398Isolation and quarantine weren’t what you had in mind for 2020. It’s a plot twist right out of a Hollywood movie, but instead of being in the frontlines, you’re at home waiting for good news. Social media posts promote quarantine as a guarantor for your health, and it’s best not to take it for granted. …

]]>Isolation and quarantine weren’t what you had in mind for 2020. It’s a plot twist right out of a Hollywood movie, but instead of being in the frontlines, you’re at home waiting for good news.

Social media posts promote quarantine as a guarantor for your health, and it’s best not to take it for granted. However, there are other health concerns you may overlook while staying in the safety of your home.

Staying Sane

The current crisis requires that we stay up to date with the latest happenings in our area. The trouble, though, with endless scrolling on your news feed is that you can overdo it. Anxiety tends to sky-rocket when all you hear are “death tolls” and “confirmed cases”. The exaggerated and false news circulating in social media further worsens it. This can lead to disrupted sleep patterns, changing appetites and bad habits. Checking in only once or twice allows your mind space to breathe from all the worrying you’ve been doing. It also reduces stress on your eyes from digital fatigue. Spare the use of your new smart glasses for more profitable activities like work or online classes.

The cost of abusing your eyes may not be your only concern when you tune in to devices all day.

Staying Active

It’s tempting to maximise your Netflix subscription and forget about the pandemic for a couple of hours, isn’t it? The downside to this kind of distraction is physical inactivity. Lying down or sitting for long periods of time can take its toll on your body. Staying active boosts your immune system – your first line of defense against the virus. Do some stretches in-between episodes of your favorite show to warm up those joints. Better yet, start the fitness regime you didn’t have the time to commit to before the quarantine. Also, keep your emergency stack of chips inside the closet for now. Comfort foods can only do so much to keep our spirits up and there could be some things you can’t deal with only by sweating.

Staying Connected

They’re often interchanged, but mental and emotional health do have a difference. A good way to stay emotionally healthy during these times is by connecting to your family and friends on social media. Even brief conversations about your worries can do wonders in releasing pent-up anxiety. It may also be extremely important for the recipient just to receive contact from someone, albeit online.

Staying in touch with the right group of people lessens your sense of isolation and can empower you to spend quarantine time more healthily.

Staying True

Everyone’s struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic and no one can blame you for having bad days. Don’t give up, though. One of the simplest but most effective ways to ease its strain is to remain as mentally, physically and emotionally healthy as possible during the quarantine.

Health, after all, is a public matter and in this difficult time, respecting your body is your way of protecting the community you live in.

]]>Who to Expect in a Trial Courtroomhttps://www.reefguardian.org/who-to-expect-in-a-trial-courtroom/
Wed, 08 Apr 2020 05:16:15 +0000https://www.reefguardian.org/?p=391If you are about to go to court, you may be wondering who will be present. There are usually several people in a courtroom with various jobs, but the specific people who will be there will vary from case to case. However, there are key figures that are almost always expected in a court case. …

]]>If you are about to go to court, you may be wondering who will be present. There are usually several people in a courtroom with various jobs, but the specific people who will be there will vary from case to case. However, there are key figures that are almost always expected in a court case. Here is a quick rundown on who you may meet and what their job is.

The Attorney

Attorneys are the legal system’s officers. An attorney represents one party in civil and criminal cases. They serve as their client’s advocates by arguing in the court and presenting evidence to help support the case of their client. With their client’s best interests in mind, they may suggest particular actions regarding the case. However, you may not always find an attorney present in a courtroom — some defendants choose to represent themselves.

The Judge

Of course, one of the most important figures you will see in a courtroom is the judge. A judge is an appointed or elected official who conducts the court proceedings. They are in charge of deciding what the sentence will be, along with keeping order in the court. They interpret the implications, significance, and meaning of the law. They should also remain impartial with their decisions. Before a person becomes a judge, they must have many years of law experience as a lawyer, along with passing a bar exam.

The Court Reporter

Court reporters play a huge role in many legal proceedings. They are in charge of keeping an accurate and detailed record or whatever was being said. They must create a secure, accurate, and complete legal transcript of depositions, witness testimonies, and courtroom proceedings. Many people need to find excellent court reporters in Phoenix, AZ, for instance, especially when it is a medical malpractice case where a lot of medical terms are used.

The Bailiff

A bailiff is a law enforcement officer. They assist the judge in the orderly conduct of the trial while maintaining security and order in the courtroom. They also announce when the judge enters and leaves, thus being in charge of opening and closing the court. They can work with lawyers, government workers, and court personnel.

The Prosecutor

Many people often do not know the difference between prosecutors and lawyers. Here’s what you should remember: not all lawyers are prosecutors, while all prosecutors are lawyers. A lawyer has a license to practice law, whereas a prosecutor works for the prosecutor’s office as a lawyer, so a prosecutor works for a state or national government.

A prosecutor has several duties, such as investigating the crime with the police while supervising the legality of investigations. Their client is always the State, so you can usually find them in both criminal and civil cases.

While more people may be present in court, the people mentioned are some of the key figures who play essential roles in court. They have several duties to help carry out court proceedings as efficiently and legally as they can.